As an automotive expert with years of experience in the industry, I can provide an in-depth understanding of what should be included in a full car service. A comprehensive car service is essential for maintaining the performance, safety, and longevity of your vehicle. Here's a detailed breakdown of what you can expect from a full service:

Oil and Filter Change: The most basic part of a car service, but crucial nonetheless. Old engine oil, which can contain dirt and metal particles, is drained and replaced with fresh oil. The oil filter, which traps contaminants, is also replaced to ensure clean oil circulation.

Fluid Top-Up: This includes checking and topping up all the key fluids in the engine. These are:
- Washer Fluid: Ensures clear visibility through the windshield by keeping it clean.
- Brake Fluid: Critical for the brake system's operation, ensuring that the brake pedal feels firm and responsive.
- Antifreeze: Prevents the engine from overheating and also prevents the coolant system from freezing in cold weather.
- Steering Fluid: Ensures smooth and responsive steering.

Visual Inspection: A thorough visual inspection is conducted to check for any obvious signs of wear and tear, damage, or leaks. This includes looking at the belts, hoses, and other components for any signs of damage or wear.

Check of Key Components: A full service will typically involve a check of up to 35 key components. This may include:
- Spark Plugs: Ensuring they are clean and functioning properly.
- Air Filter: Checking for clogging or damage that could affect engine performance.
- Fuel Filter: Ensuring it is not clogged and is allowing fuel to flow freely.
- Battery: Checking the battery's health and ensuring it is charging correctly.
- Brake Pads and Discs: Inspecting for wear and ensuring they are within safe limits.
- Suspension and Shock Absorbers: Checking for any signs of damage or leaks.
- Tires: Checking the tire pressure, tread depth, and overall condition.

Wheel Alignment: Ensuring that the wheels are properly aligned can help with fuel efficiency and tire longevity. It also contributes to a smoother ride and better handling.

Brake System Check: A detailed inspection of the brake system, including the pads, rotors, and calipers, to ensure everything is in good working order.

Exhaust System Inspection: Looking for any signs of rust, damage, or leaks that could affect the performance and emissions of the vehicle.

Lighting and Electrical Systems: Checking all exterior and interior lights, as well as the electrical system, to ensure everything is functioning properly.

Tire Rotation and Balancing: This helps to ensure even tire wear and prolongs the life of the tires.

Wipers and Wiper Blades: Checking the condition of the wipers and replacing the blades if necessary to ensure clear visibility in all weather conditions.

Clutch Inspection: For manual transmission vehicles, the clutch is inspected to ensure it is engaging and disengaging smoothly.

Transmission and Differential Fluid: Checking the levels and condition of the transmission and differential fluids, which are vital for the smooth operation of these systems.

Cooling System Check: Ensuring that the cooling system is functioning properly and that there are no leaks.

General Maintenance Recommendations: The service will also include recommendations for any general maintenance that may be required in the near future.

A full car service is a comprehensive procedure that covers all the essential aspects of vehicle maintenance. It's designed to keep your car running smoothly, safely, and efficiently, and to help you avoid costly repairs down the line.

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Each type of service builds on the previous level, so a basic service will typically include an oil and filter change and a visual inspection, but there will usually be a top up of all the key fluids in the engine (washer fluid, brake fluid, antifreeze and steering fluid) and a check of up to 35 key components to ...read more >>